How To Wear The “Shirt Around The Waist” Trend (And Not Look 12)

It took 29 years for me to finally give into the shirt around the waist trend – which, let’s be honest, really just shows how stubborn I can be.

I didn’t give into it as a kid when all my friends were rockin’ their big puffer jackets around their waists, and I didn’t give into it just recently when 90’s fashion made a roaring comeback.

I gave into it just this past weekend when this super simple (and affordable!) nude tank dress just so happened to be hanging next to my very loved jean jacket. I looked at the two and something just clicked. The outfit isn’t revolutionary by any means but it felt right, and most importantly, it didn’t feel super young. It just gave laid-back, yet chic vibes which instantly convinced me that the shirt around the waist trend will be a repeat offender all summer – you’ve been warned 😉

So how do you wear the shirt around the waist trend without looking 12? Honestly, I think it depends on the shirt/jacket you decide to tie around your waist. Rule of thumb: If the sleeves stick out and don’t fall naturally after you’ve tied it, I’d skip it. I also have a few other tips when trying this trend:

PLACEMENT

Placement is super important when you wear this trend with a tighter shirt or dress. Try to wrap the shirt right at your hip bone (or slightly lower) so that it doesn’t accentuate any areas you don’t want to. Seems silly but trust me it makes a huge difference.

KEEP THE SHIRT UNBUTTONED

If you button up your shirt or jacket completely, it’ll end up looking super bulky from behind. I like buttoning just the first button to create a nicer silhouette.

FLOWY FABRICS ARE KEY

This trend started with flannels (I think 😉 ) so the entire vibe is meant to be super carefree and effortless. If you pick a shirt or jacket that doesn’t sway, then the whole #ootd ends up looking stiff. If you’re going to try the trend, choose a piece that flows and moves with you.

Are you a lover of this trend? What other 90’s trend(s) are you currently obsessed over? Let me know below!